When did you begin your artist journey?

My story is pretty classy. I've been interested in art for as long as I can remember. I began my artist journey when I was a child. My mum takes me to an art class. As I grew older, my love for art only deepened, and I continued to take classes and participate in art shows throughout middle and high school. After graduating, I decided to pursue a degree in Design. Since then, I've worked as a professional artist, participating in exhibitions and as an illustrator and art director.

 

Who has influenced your work, or continues to influence your work?

There have been many artists who have influenced my work over the years. As a Russian girl, I was inspired by Russian art classics. For instance, Isaac Levitan and Ilia Repin. As I've grown as an artist, I've also been influenced by more contemporary artists like Vladimir Abikh and Ai Weiwei, whose work addresses social and political issues in a powerful and thought-provoking way. I also draw inspiration from my surroundings and the people in my life and incorporate personal experiences and emotions into my work.

 

How would you describe your creative process?

My creative process is always evolving and changing. Sometimes I'll have a clear idea of what I want to create from the outset, and other times I'll start with just a basic concept and let the piece develop organically as I work. I like to keep things fresh and exciting by trying out new materials and techniques, and I'm always open to the possibility of serendipitous accidents and happy accidents.

 

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from a variety of sources. My personal experiences and emotions often inspire me. I'm also heavily influenced by the world around me, and I try to capture the complexity of nature and the human experience in my work.

 

What do you aim to say by the themes in your art?

I use my art to address social and political issues that I feel strongly about. Whether it's through the use of symbolism and metaphor or more literal representations. I believe that art has the power to inspire change and bring about positive social and political transformation, and I hope that my work contributes to that in some way.

 

Do you feel your art challenges existing barriers?

Yes, I definitely feel that my art challenges existing barriers. I believe that all art has the potential to challenge existing barriers, whether it's through the use of unconventional techniques or the exploration of taboo subjects, like political ones. This is a huge topic for me because all artists are decriminalized in my home country, Russia. It is impossible to speak directly about your views and express them in art because you will just be canceled. 


What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

My main piece would be to never give up on your dreams. There will always be someone who loves your work. Believe in yourself.